NBPTS Exceptional Needs Specialist Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Resource

In the context of special education, autism is defined as a developmental disability that impacts communication and social interactions. This definition aligns with the core characteristics of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which include challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities.

Understanding this definition is crucial for educators, as it highlights the need for tailored instructional strategies that can address the unique needs of students with autism. Effective educational practices often focus on fostering communication skills, social interaction, and emotional understanding, thereby enabling students with autism to engage more successfully in educational settings.

This perspective acknowledges the broad spectrum of autism, recognizing that individuals may present a wide range of abilities and challenges, and stresses the importance of individualized support and intervention. It diverts from the other options, which either do not capture the essence of autism or incorrectly attribute its origins and impacts.